North Carolina Children’s revealed Tuesday that the nonprofit Duke Endowment has awarded a $100 million grant to support the construction of a major pediatric health campus in Apex. The funding will underwrite a 500‑bed children’s hospital, a dedicated behavioral health hospital, and a state‑of‑the‑art surgical center, all slated for completion in the early 2030s.
Local impact and community benefits
Leaders of the project say the grant represents a “major step” toward bringing high‑quality pediatric care closer to home for families across the Triangle. By situating the facilities within the Veridea development—a multibillion‑dollar mixed‑use community spanning roughly 1,100 acres between US‑1 and I‑540—the region will gain not only advanced medical services but also new jobs and economic activity.
Infrastructure upgrades to support growth
In tandem with the hospital plan, Apex officials have signed a contract worth about $18 million for critical infrastructure upgrades. The agreement covers turning lanes, new traffic signals, and other roadway improvements along Highway 55 to ensure smooth traffic flow to the future hospital and the adjacent community college. A newly approved pump station will also replace aging water infrastructure, further bolstering the area’s capacity to support the upcoming development.
Timeline and next steps
The hospital complex is expected to break ground next year, with construction progressing over the next decade. As the project moves forward, city planners will continue coordinating with state and private partners to align utilities, transportation, and zoning requirements.
Community response
Local residents and business owners have expressed optimism about the anticipated boost to Apex’s health services and economy. Parents in particular welcome the prospect of having a full‑service children’s hospital within a short drive, reducing the need to travel to larger metropolitan centers for specialized care.
About the Duke Endowment
Founded in 1924, the Duke Endowment is a private, nonprofit foundation that provides grants to advance education, health care, rural churches, and community development throughout North Carolina. The $100 million award underscores the foundation’s long‑standing commitment to improving health outcomes for the state’s youngest citizens.
As the project advances, Apex officials will keep the public informed through regular updates at city council meetings and community forums.
Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.
